Mixed-Use Development - A Dynamic and Sustainable
Urban Hub.
CLIENT: ……………………………………………….
Kiyagi, Priscilla Hermenegild
April 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................... 1
1.1.
PROJECT TITLE .................................................................................... 1
1.2.
PROJECT LOCATION ............................................................................ 1
1.3.
PROJECT OVERVIEW ........................................................................... 1
1.4.
CLIENT ................................................................................................ 1
1.5.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES .......................................................................... 1
1.6.
PROJECT TITLE .................................................................................... 1
1.7.
RELEVANCE OF PROJECT TO RESEARCH FINDINGS .............................. 1
1.7.1.
Research Tittle.............................................................................. 1
1.7.2.
Research Problem ........................................................................ 1
1.7.3.
Research Objectives ..................................................................... 2
1.7.4.
Research Questions ...................................................................... 2
1.7.5.
Research Findings ......................................................................... 2
1.7.6.
Conclusion .................................................................................... 3
1.7.7.
Recommendations ....................................................................... 3
1.7.8.
Project Relevance ......................................................................... 4
2.0. SITE SELECTION ........................................................................................... 1
2.1.
SITE LOCATION AND CONTEXT............................................................ 1
2.1.1.
Site Location ................................................................................. 1
2.1.2.
Site Context .................................................................................. 2
2.1.3.
Urban development and architectural implications...................... 2
2.1.4.
Significance of the project on the given site ................................. 3
2.2.
SITE RELEVANCE TO THE PROJECT AND RESEARCH ............................. 4
2.2.1.
Alignment with research objectives: ............................................ 4
2.2.2.
Impact and Vision ......................................................................... 4
3.0. DESIGN REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 5
3.1.
BUILDING COMPOSITION AND MASSING............................................ 5
i
3.2.
SPACE PROGRAMMING AND FUNCTIONAL AREAS ............................. 5
3.3.
BUILDIGNG PERFORMACE REQUIREMENTS ........................................ 7
4.0. DESIGN GUIDELINES .................................................................................... 9
4.1.
DYNAMIC FAÇADE OPTIMIZATION...................................................... 9
4.2.
DAYLIGHT CONTROL ......................................................................... 10
4.3.
INTERGRATION WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY ..................................... 10
5.0. PROJECT IMPLEMENTAION PLAN .............................................................. 11
5.1.
PERFORMANCE GOALS ..................................................................... 11
5.2.
PROJECT TIMELINE ........................................................................... 11
6.0. CASE STUDIES DYNAMIC FAÇADE NETWORK ............................................ 12
List of Figures
Figure 2.1: Site location map.............................................................................. 1
Figure 2.2: Site context ...................................................................................... 2
Figure 2..3: Site Context ..................................................................................... 3
Figure 3.0.2: Commercial interior space ............................................................ 6
Figure 3.1: Motorized shading louver system .................................................... 7
Figure 4.1: Facade integrated with solar PV panels .......................................... 10
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1.0. INTRODUCTION
1.1.
PROJECT TITLE
Mixed-Use Development - A Dynamic and Sustainable Urban Hub
1.2.
PROJECT LOCATION
Along Sam Nujoma Road, Dar es Salaam Tanzania
1.3.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The mixed-use facility aims to create a vibrant urban environment, integrating residential,
commercial, and recreational spaces. The design will incorporate sustainable features and
dynamic façade systems to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. The
project envisions a multifunctional space that responds to the urban context and supports a
live-work-play lifestyle.
1.4.
CLIENT
……………………………………….
1.5.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this project are as follows:
i.
Establish a landmark development that enriches the urban fabric
ii.
Create a sustainable, adaptable and climate- responsive design
iii.
Promote community interaction and economic growth
iv.
Optimize energy efficiency through dynamic facades
1.6.
PROJECT TITLE
Mixed-Use Development - A Dynamic and Sustainable Urban Hub
1.7.
RELEVANCE OF PROJECT TO RESEARCH FINDINGS
1.7.1. Research Tittle
ADAPTIVE SHADING FAÇADE DESIGN FOR DAYLIGHT ILLUMINATION OPTIMIZATION IN
DAR ES SALAAM (A case for office and academic buildings)
1.7.2. Research Problem
How can dynamic façade mechanisms be designed and implemented to effectively
regulate solar radiation and enhance indoor daylight illumination in Tanzania’s
architectural context?
1
1.7.3. Research Objectives

Main Objective
To investigate the potential of dynamic façade mechanisms in optimizing daylight indoor
illumination in office and academic spaces in Tanzania’s tropical climate.

Specific Objectives
a) To assess the performance existing shading façade designs on indoor illumination in
public buildings in Dar es salaam.
b) To evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic facade mechanisms with adjustable
shading angles in optimizing daylight distribution in public buildings in Dar es salaam.
c) To propose optimized shading facade design strategies that enhance indoor daylight
illumination while improving energy efficiency for Dar es salaam.
1.7.4. Research Questions
a) How do existing shading devices influence indoor daylighting illumination public
indoor spaces in Dar es salaam?
b) How do dynamic facade systems with adjustable shading angles affect distribution
of daylight in a tropical Dar es salaam public indoor setting?
c) What design strategies for optimized shading façade design that can be
implemented enhance indoor daylight illumination in Tanzanian public indoor
spaces?
1.7.5. Research Findings
a) North Facade:
This Requires horizontal overhangs with adjustable angles between 55°–70° and shading
is most needed from May to July (when the sun is slightly lower and more heat enters).
Fixed horizontal overhangs with adjustable panels for different seasons can be applied.
Peak shading (75°) in May–July, reducing to 60° in December–January for winter daylight.
b) South Facade:
This façade needs minimal shading since direct sunlight is rare and small adjustable
shading (20°–50°) helps for glare control in winter. Minimal shading needed, except in
winter glare periods. Adjustable overhangs at 15°–45°, mainly for glare control in
classrooms/offices.
2
c) East Facade:
The morning sun enters at a low angle, so vertical fins or operable louvers (50°–65°) are
best.
d) West Facade:
The afternoon sun is harsh and at a low angle, requiring deep vertical fins (58°–70°) to
reduce heat gain. Horizontal shading is less effective due to low-angle morning/evening
sun. Use deep overhangs (75°–80°) or combine with vertical louvers for better control.
1.7.6. Conclusion
The implementation of fixed aluminum horizontal shading devices as per the case study
parameters demonstrated partial effectiveness in controlling daylight. The results varied
significantly based on orientation. For the north orientation it provided stable and uniform
daylight, while for the south orientation it received minimal direct sunlight which
necessitate artificial lighting in deeper spaces. For the east facing facades experiencing
high morning sun exposure, leading to excessive illuminance and glare despite the shading
while for the wet facing façade the shading reduced intense afternoon soon but not
eliminating discomfort.
To address the limitations of fixed shading, a horizontal shading system has been
proposed, with monthly angle adjustments based on the solar altitude and seasonal
daylight needs. This will help attain more balanced daylight distribution across all
orientations, with peak glare being potentially reduced by (40-60%), particularly on east
and west facing facades. This will subsequently lead to better indoor comfort, energy
efficiency and enhanced visual comfort as optimized daylighting can reduce the need for
artificial lighting and air conditioning, with fewer instances of excessive brightness or
under-lit conditions throughout the year.
1.7.7. Recommendations
To optimize daylighting and visual comfort in Dar es salaam’s tropical climate dynamic
façade mechanisms should be prioritized over fixed shading solutions. Given the city's
high solar radiation levels and year-round warm temperatures, an adaptive shading
approach is essential to balance daylight penetration, minimize glare, and reduce cooling
loads. Horizontal shading devices with adjustable angles, ranging from 15° to 80° based
on seasonal solar altitudes, have been proposed in this study, but more advanced dynamic
mechanisms can further enhance performance.
3
To allow further optimization through the year motorized shading system with suntracking sensors can be a suitable solution, allowing real-time adjustments based on solar
position rather than monthly estimates. These systems can include automated louvers,
rotating panels, or kinetic shading devices, which respond dynamically to varying daylight
conditions. These systems can go as far as photovoltaic-integration so as to provide both
shading and renewable energy generation, harnessing the high solar radiation inf Dar es
salaam tropical region, aligning with sustainability goals.
To successfully implement these dynamic shading strategies in Dar es Salaam, buildings
must incorporate cost-effective and locally adaptable solutions. Manually adjustable
shading systems offer a lower-cost alternative to fully automated systems, allowing
occupants to control shading based on immediate needs. Hybrid systems, where shading
angles adjust automatically during peak hours but remain manually operable outside
these periods, can balance affordability and efficiency. Smart building management
systems (BMS) should also be integrated to regulate shading, lighting, and cooling loads
based on real-time climate data, ensuring optimal indoor comfort with minimal energy
consumption.
Urban planning policies and building regulations should encourage the adoption of
adaptive façades in new developments and retrofitting projects. Architects and designers
must prioritize climate-responsive façade designs, integrating local materials and passive
strategies alongside dynamic technologies. For commercial and institutional buildings,
investment in intelligent façade systems will lead to long-term energy savings and
improved occupant well-being.
Ultimately, implementing dynamic façade systems in Dar es Salaam will contribute to
sustainable urban development, energy efficiency, and improved indoor environmental
quality. As climate challenges intensify, embracing adaptable shading solutions will be
critical for creating resilient, comfortable, and resource-efficient buildings tailored to the
region’s unique climatic conditions.
1.7.8. Project Relevance
The research on dynamic façade systems focuses on optimizing indoor daylight, in Dar es
salaam. The proposed mixed-use facility leverages these findings by integrating kinetic
façades that adjust shading and ventilation according to solar angles throughout the year.
4
This project aims to demonstrates the potential of dynamic façades in addressing local
climatic challenges while providing a vibrant, functional, and aesthetically appealing urban
environment. The innovative façade system will not only reduce energy consumption but also
enhance user comfort and environmental quality.
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2.0. SITE SELECTION
2.1.
SITE LOCATION AND CONTEXT
2.1.1. Site Location
Along Sam Nujoma Road, a major urban corridor with high visibility and accessibility in
Dar es Salaam. The location offers opportunities for urban integration and connectivity
which are key factors mixed use project site location.
This will also ensure integration of building’s façade design into the existing urban fabric.
The mixed-use facility’s location along Sam Nujoma Road provides high visibility,
accessibility, and urban integration. The project will serve as a landmark development,
revitalizing the area and promoting urban growth. Its dynamic design will adapt to the
site’s tropical climate, providing a model for sustainable, climate-responsive architecture
in Dar es Salaam. The facility will attract businesses, residents, and visitors,
Figure 2.1: Site location map
i.
Climate: Dar es Salaam’s tropical climate features high solar exposure, hot and humid
conditions, and seasonal rainfall. This will aid in the design parameters since it will then
address optimum solar shading by use of dynamic façade systems, thermal comfort and
1
energy efficiency to ensure proper operation of the proposed mixed-use facility in the
given site.
2.1.2. Site Context
The selected site is surrounded by commercial, residential and institutional buildings, offering
a vibrant urban setting. It is nestled between the PSSF Commercial Compled and Mawasiliano
Towers, this area is a vibrant bussiness hub, with nearby governmental, institutional,
corporate and commercial facilities such as Mlimani city, University of Dar es salaam Main
campus and Law school of Taanzania to menstion a few.
The proximity to major landmarks and infrastructure provides excellent accessibility and
visibility making it an ideal location for a mixed-use project focused on dynamic, sustainable
architecture.
Figure 2.2: Site context
2.1.3. Urban development and architectural implications
The site’s location in one of Dar es salaam’s commercial corridors positions it as a key player
in the city’s urban landscape with a demand to harmonize with neighbouring high-rise
2
buildings while showcasing innovation.. A dynamic façade system that optimizes indoor
illumination would align well with the area’s push for mofern, sustainable and iconic
architecture while reflecting the progressive urban identity of Dar es salaam.
Figure 2.3: Site Context
2.1.4. Significance of the project on the given site
The mixed-use facility’s location along Sam Nujoma Road provides high visibility, accessibility,
and urban integration. The project will serve as a landmark development, revitalizing the area
and promoting urban growth. Its dynamic design will adapt to the site’s tropical climate,
providing a model for sustainable, climate-responsive architecture in Dar es Salaam. The
facility will attract businesses, residents, and visitors, contributing to the local economy and
enhancing the urban experience.
3
2.2.
SITE RELEVANCE TO THE PROJECT AND RESEARCH
2.2.1. Alignment with research objectives:
The site’s exposure to intense solar radiation throughout the year makes it a potential case
for adaptable solar radiation building design. Developing a dynamic façade system tailored to
Dar es salaam’s climate can enhance indoor daylight illumination, mitigate heat gain and
reduce cooling loads.
2.2.2. Impact and Vision
A successful mixed-use project would set a new standard for sustainable, adaptive
architecture in Tanzania. The façade design can become an iconic feature, highlighting the
potential for responsive architecture in Dar es Salaam’s urban context.
4
3.0. DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
This project aims to showcase a cutting-edge, climate-responsive mixed-use building, setting
a precedent for dynamic architecture in Tanzania. Proposed uses of the mixed-use facility
include:

Commercial spaces: Retail outlets, restaurants and offices

Residential Spaces: Apartments and penthouses with private terraces.

Recreational Facilities: Gym, swimming pool, and landscaped rooftop.

Parking and Accessibility: Ample parking and universal access.

Public Spaces: Plazas, walkways, and green areas.
3.1.
BUILDING COMPOSITION AND MASSING
i.
Number of floors: 15 stories
ii.
Building Height: Approximately 60- 70 meters
iii.
Floor Plate Size: Approximately 500m2 per floor
iv.
Zoning and Massing:
3.2.

Podium: Ground to 3rd floor (Commercial, Retail and parking)

Tower: 4th to 15th floor (Residential units and offices)
SPACE PROGRAMMING AND FUNCTIONAL AREAS
i. Basement/Podium Levels (Ground to 3rd Floor):

Parking & Services:
o
3 Levels of Parking accommodating 150-180 parking spaces
o
Service floor for mechanical, electrical, water storage, and backup generator
o
Bicycle Storage & EV Charging Stations
o
Service bay/loading dock for retail
ii. Ground to 3rd Floor - Commercial & Retail:

Commercial Facilities (Approx. 1,500 m²)
o
Supermarket/Anchor Store: 400 m²
o
Retail Shops (8 units): 50 m² each (total 400 m²)
o
Bank/Financial Services: 100 m²
5
Figure 3.0.1: Commercial interior space
o
Restaurants & Cafés (2 Units): 100 m² each (total 200 m²)
o
Health & Wellness Center (Gym/Spa): 200 m²
o
Public Plaza & Green Courtyard: 200 m² with landscaping
iii. 4th to 8th Floor - Office Spaces & Co-Working Areas:

Office Facilities (Approx. 2,500 m²)
o
Corporate Offices (around 4 units per floor)
o
Co-working & Open Office Spaces
o
Conference/Meeting Rooms (around 2 per floor): 50 m² each
o
Breakout Lounges & Shared Amenities: 50 m² per floor
o
Dedicated Server/IT Room and Backup Power Supply
iv. 9th to 15th Floor - Residential Apartments:

Housing Unit Mix & Typologies
o
1-Bedroom Units (around 20 units): 60 m² each
o
2-Bedroom Units (around 20 units): 90 m² each
o
3-Bedroom Units (around 10 units): 120 m² each
o
Penthouse Units (around 2 units): each with private terraces
o
Residential Lounge & Sky Garden (Communal)
o
Rooftop Swimming Pool & Fitness Center
6
3.3.
BUILDIGNG PERFORMACE REQUIREMENTS
i.
Dynamic Façade design

Dynamic Shading Devices: Automated motorized louvers and overhangs
responsive to the sun’s path and annual solar intensities.
Figure 3.2: Motorized shading louver system
Automation: Integrated control systems with sensors for real-time adjustments
3.4.
i.
ii.
3.5.
i.
CIRCULATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
Vertical Circulation

4 Passenger Elevators (Capacity: 12 persons each)

1 Service Elevator (Capacity: 2,000 kg)

2 Emergency Staircases complying with fire safety standards
Horizontal Circulation

Barrier-Free Design for Universal Access

Ramps & Tactile Paving for the Visually Impaired
SAFETY AND SECURITY REQUIREMENTS
Fire Safety
7
ii.
3.6.

Fire Detection & Suppression Systems (Sprinklers, Alarms, Extinguishers)

Emergency Escape Routes & Refuge Areas on Each Floor
Security systems

24/7 CCTV Surveillance & Security Personnel

Access Control Systems for Restricted Areas
AESTHETIC AND CULTURAL CONSIDERATINS
Architectural expression: Proposed a blend of modern aesthetics and Tanzanian
cultural motifs.
3.7.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND APPROVAL

Ensure compliance with Tanzania Building Codes and regulations

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Approval

Municipal and Urban planning Approvals
8
4.0. DESIGN GUIDELINES
4.1.

DYNAMIC FAÇADE OPTIMIZATION
Façade elements should adjust monthly based on solar angles to optimize shading and
daylighting.
Month North Facade (High South Facade (Low East
Sun)
Jan
60°
Sun)
Facade West Facade (Afternoon
(Morning Sun)
Sun)
(moderate 15° (minimal)
75° (deep overhang) 80° (deep overhang)
(moderate 20° (minimal)
70° (deep overhang) 78° (deep overhang)
shading)
Feb
63°
shading)
Mar
65° (high shading)
25° (low shading)
68°
(extended 75° (extended overhang)
overhang)
Apr
68° (high shading)
30° (low shading)
65°
(adjustable 73° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
May
70° (high shading)
35° (low shading)
62°
(adjustable 70° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
Jun
75°
(maximum 45° (low shading)
shading)
Jul
73°
(adjustable 68° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
(maximum 40° (low shading)
shading)
Aug
60°
60°
(adjustable 68° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
70° (high shading)
35° (low shading)
62°
(adjustable 70° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
Sep
68° (high shading)
30° (low shading)
65°
(adjustable 73° (adjustable overhang)
overhang)
Oct
65° (high shading)
25° (low shading)
68°
(extended 75° (extended overhang)
overhang)
Nov
63°
(moderate 20° (minimal)
70° (deep overhang) 78° (deep overhang)
(moderate 15° (minimal)
75° (deep overhang) 80° (deep overhang)
shading)
Dec
60°
shading)
9

Use adaptive louvers, perforated screens, and motorized shading devices.

Ensure automated controls linked to sun-tracking sensors for dynamic responses.
4.2.

DAYLIGHT CONTROL
Maximize natural light while minimizing glare using light shelves and reflective
surfaces.

4.3.
Façade design should ensure 80% of indoor spaces receive adequate daylight.
INTERGRATION WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY

Install photovoltaic panels on rooftops and façades.

Design façades to accommodate solar panels seamlessly.
Figure 4.1: Facade integrated with solar PV panels
10
5.0. PROJECT IMPLEMENTAION PLAN
5.1.
PERFORMANCE GOALS

Reduce energy consumption by at least 40% compared to conventional buildings

Maintain indoor temperature’s within comfort range year round

Optimize daylighting while minimizing glare
5.2.
PROJECT TIMELINE
i.
Concept Design:
ii.
Design Development:
iii.
Construction Documents:
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6.0. CASE STUDIES DYNAMIC FAÇADE NETWORK
The following case studies examine factors such as response to environment, contact,
adaption, impulse, technology, method, material and process.
Project Details
Project Name
Location & Date
Architect
Climate
Typology
Height
Al Bahr Towers
Abu Dhabi, 2012
ADEAS
Hot Desert
Office
145 m
Concept:
The Al Bahar Towers are a shining example of how to use the latest in modern
technology while rooting a building in its cultural context.
Traditional Arabian architecture long helped locals survive under the most
extreme weather conditions. The riddle Aedas faced was how to keep the
building cool without using massive amounts of air conditioning. The solution
is a software-driven design that creates an intricate modern version of the
mashrabiya, the geometric screens that are found on buildings all over the
Middle East.
The Al Bahar Towers’ mashrabiya facade is not only eye-catching, but it’s very
effective in protecting the towers from the relentless solar gain that is
problematic for many modern buildings in hot climates. While reducing solar
gain by 50 percent, the facade also reduces the offices’ dependence on
artificial light, allowing the architects to use lightly tinted glazing and overall
improving the comfort of the employees who work for the ADIC. The gigantic
latticework almost entirely wraps both towers except for the area of the
facades facing north.
Building Façade
Façade Component
The geometric patterns include over 1000 moving
elements that contract and expand during the day
depending on the sun’s position.
12
Techniques Adapted
Parametric triangular umbrellas using
PTFE are organized into hexagonal units
attached to a glass facade, changes their
form origami-like folding controls.
Visibility, User comfort, Decreasing energy usage, use of artificial lighting and
air- cooling, loads, energy consumption
has been achieved through this facade
Façade Response Parameters
Heat & Light Responsive
Position of Component
Outside
Control Operation Type
Extrinsic
Scale of Component
Macro Level
Adapting time
Hours
Actuation of the System
Mechanical
Active System
Adaptive component
Mash- Rabiya
unots
Component movement
Open-closescaling
Project Details
Project Name
Arab World
Institute
Paris / 1981 to
1987
Jean Nouvel
Temperate
Oceanic
Office
32m
In use
Frame
Steel structure
Steel structure
Location & Date
Architect
Climate
Typology
Height
Status
Structure and material
Function / usage
Concept:
The facade was conceptualized connect heritage of the Middle East via traditional
Jaali
patterns also known as the mashrabiya.
Building Façade
Façade Component
Techniques Adapted
Sensor based responsive architecture
with 240 photosensitive
quadrangular panels that control light.
30.000 photoelectric cells,
light sensitive diaphragms of stainless
- steel function between two
glass sheets of the South-West facade.
This acts like a lens
connected to a central system
These elements open or close on the
basis of the environment
conditions accordingly.
Façade Response Parameters
Heat & Light Responsive
Position of Component
Integrated
Control Operation Type
Extrinsic
Scale of Component
Macro
Level
Adapting time
Minutes
Actuation of the System
Mechanical
Active
System
Adaptive component
Light
sensitive
Diaphragms
Scaling
Component movement
The geometric patterns that comprise this
gigantic screen include over 1000 moving
elements that contract and expand during
the day depending on the sun’s position.
13